HPA 30m Antenna X-Band (EX30 Project)

The 30 m antenna at the DLR site in Weilheim is to be made capable of transmitting in the X-band for future project support. The frequency range is: 7.145 - 7.235 GHz with an input power of approx. 0 dBm (+/- 10 dB). Therefore a 5 kW (P1dB) SSPA (solid-state power amplifier) is required. This power should be available at the output flange. A suitable system architecture should ensure that the unit is redundant in itself and that defective amplifier stages can be easily replaced. If an amplifier stage fails, the system should ideally be able to compensate for this loss, or at least remain in operation with reduced power. The failure of an electrical component (including preamplifiers) must not result in a total system failure. It must be possible to change a replacement module quickly (ideally during operation). A suitable waveguide switch and a dummy load should also be part of the system (these do not necessarily have to be supplied by the HPA manufacturer). Due to the limited space available, the form factor plays an important role. Ideally, the 5 kW system should be able to be accommodated in a 19'' rack unit. Furthermore, the system should be designed in such a way that it can be scaled further in the future (e.g. interconnection of two 5 kW units). A concept for cooling the amplifier system should also be presented. The system must be operable both remotely and locally. To implement the amplifier functions in DLR's own M&C (Monitoring and Control) system, a suitable ICD (Interface Control Document) must be made available as early as possible. The system must also have a fully developed web GUI or executable program file. Space inside the cabin of the 30m antenna is limited, and the existing air conditioning in the cabin will no longer be sufficient once the amplifier has been implemented. Therefore, an appropriate concept for the realization of the cooling of the amplifier system must be presented. It is important to bring the 5 kW output power to the feed waveguide flange with the shortest possible waveguide section in order to minimize supply line losses. All further information and discussions on the best possible system integration will take place after the competition.

The following must also be observed: The requirements of the export control law applicable to the project must be taken into account, in particular the handling of goods under the Foreign Trade and Payments Ordinance (AWV), the EC Dual-Use Regulation (EC Regulation 428/2009), the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR) and the Export Administration Regulations (EAR).

Planned delivery period: The system is to be delivered within 12 months of the order being placed at the latest.